Some dogs are fearful of loud noises like thunder, and can have a variety of reactions. Some may tremble with fear, and others may try to hide. Still others may try to run away, injuring themselves in their panicked state and others may become destructive within the house. According to MSNBC, around 20 percent of dogs of all ages and breeds have noise phobias so severe that their owners seek professional help.

If your dog is suffering from a noise phobia, you should talk to your vet about a desensitization training regimen that may help condition your animal to the loud noises. Using behavior modification techniques such as systematic desensitization and counter-conditioning may help the dog accept the noises and reduce their anxiety during storms.

Because anxiety is not a physical dog or cat illness, the best treatment is often special training, not solely medicine. However, sedatives, anti-anxiety drugs and some calming pheromones can be helpful to soothe a dog's nerves if required, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.

HOW TO REACH US

VCA Lafayette Animal Hospital

Phone: 765-447-0521

3532 South Street

Lafayette,
IN47905

BUSINESS HOURS

Mon-Fri 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sat 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sun 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

We are now open later hours during the week and on weekends for Emergencies and urgent care cases. Please call ahead with your emergency if you are able to - 765- 447-0521.

Emergency

In case of emergency during normal business hours, please call us immediately. If you have an emergency outside of our normal business hours, please contact a local emergency animal hospital.

Specialty Care

As part of the VCA family, we have over 83 specialty hospitals across the US and Canada which provide referral specialty care, so there may be one near you. Enter ZIP to find VCA specialty care hospitals near you.